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Cited by 14Cardiovascular and exercise physiologyHeart Rate Variability and Autonomic ControlSports Performance and Training

Ventilatory Threshold Related to VO2reserve, Heart Rate Reserve, and Rating of Perceived Exertion in a Large Varied Sample

Open access
GASKILL, STEVEN E., SKINNER, JAMES S., QUINDRY, JOHN·2023·Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise
DOI 10.1249/mss.0000000000003220PMC PMC10524184
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Abstract

Purpose: ACSM guidelines state that aerobic exercise intensity should be 30%/40% to 89% V̇O 2 reserve (V̇O 2 R) or heart rate reserve (HRR). Determining the proper intensity within this range is the “art” of exercise prescription, often relying on rating of perceived exertion (RPE) as the adjunctive intensity modulator. Current guidelines do not consider the use of ventilatory threshold (VT) due to the need for specialized equipment and methodological issues. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate VT related to V̇O 2peak , V̇O 2 R, HRR, and RPE across the full spectrum of very low to very high V̇O 2peak values. Methods: Eight hundred and sixty-three records of exercise tests were retrospectively examined. Data were stratified for V̇O 2peak , activity level, age, test modality, and sex. Results: When stratified for V̇O 2peak , V̇O 2 at VT (V̇O 2 vt) had a lower mean value of ~14 mL·kg −1 ·min −1 in the lowest fit, rose gradually until median V̇O 2peak , and rose steeply thereafter. When graphed relative to V̇O 2peak , V̇O 2 vt as a percentage of V̇O 2 R (VT%V̇O 2 R) resembled a U-shaped curve, with a nadir ~43% V̇O 2 R at V̇O 2peak ~40 mL·kg −1 ·min −1 . Average VT%V̇O 2 R increased to ~75% in groups with the lowest or highest V̇O 2peak . There was a large variance in the value of VT at all V̇O 2peak levels. Mean RPE at VT was 12.5 ± 0.93, regardless of V̇O 2peak . Conclusions: Given the relationship of VT as the transition from moderate- to higher-intensity exercise, these data may help the understanding of aerobic exercise prescription in persons across the spectrum of V̇O 2peak values.

Integrity signals

Registry

Crossref · 10.1249/mss.0000000000003220

Cites

44 of 44 references verified0 citation errors · 0 not checkable

Statistics

Nothing to recompute.

Claims the paper makes

10 of 33 cited sources checked · 1 supported · 1 flagged · accuracy not yet measured

  • Interpretationcitation

    VT may be a more sensitive measure of the high end of moderate exercise intensity than RPE.

    “it also suggests that VT may be a more sensitive measure of the high end of moderate exercise intensity than RPE (3,5,6,8,27).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim2 of 5 sources checked
    • cites [3] source

      The Introduction (page unavailable) describes VT as a physiological marker useful for prescribing exercise intensity. The Discussion (page unavailable) says RPE can identify intensity at VT and recommends it as a practical guide; it does not establish that VT is more sensitive than RPE at the high end of moderate intensity. (LLM, conf=0.77)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
    • cites [5] source
    • cites [6]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [8]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [27] source
  • Premisecitation

    A recent investigation of graded exercise test outcomes in 112 participants found significant deviations between ventilatory threshold and heart-rate-based intensity for those with high and low peak oxygen uptake values.

    “a recent investigation of graded exercise test outcomes in 112 participants found significant deviations between VT and HR-based intensity for those with high and low V .O 2 peak values (30).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [30] source

      The Exercise Testing and Exercise Advice vs. Prescription sections (pages unavailable) discuss heart-rate-based prescriptions and ventilatory threshold, but do not report the claimed comparison. Searches for 112 participants and for significant deviations at high and low peak oxygen uptake found no matching result in our copy. (LLM, conf=0.75)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
  • Interpretationcitation

    For individuals with a ventilatory threshold below 3.4-4.5 METs, conducting common activities of daily living would constitute exercise typical of what might be prescribed.

    “For those with a VT below 3.4-4.5METs, conducting common ADLs (e.g., household chores, self-care, low-intensity physical activity) would constitute exercise typical of what might be prescribed (36,37).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim2 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [36] source

      The Key Guidelines for Adults (Conclusions; page unavailable) say that some physical activity is better than none, but do not address whether daily activities constitute prescribed exercise for people with a low ventilatory threshold. Searches for “ventilatory threshold 3.4–4.5 METs” and for household chores, self-care, and prescribed exercise found no passage addressing that claim. (LLM, conf=0.74)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
    • cites [37] source

      The Physical Activity Intensity section says that an activity requires greater relative effort from someone with lower aerobic capacity and identifies household chores as physical activity. It does not mention ventilatory threshold or a 3.4–4.5 MET cutoff, or establish that common activities of daily living would constitute typically prescribed exercise for people below that cutoff. No page number is available in our copy. (LLM, conf=0.84)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
    • Rests on an assumption: Ventilatory threshold marks the transition from moderate- to high-intensity exercise.
  • Findingown data

    A U-shaped association was found between VO2peak and VT%VO2R, with R = 0.604.

    “Conversely, there is a U-shaped relationship (R=0.604) between V .O 2 peak and VT%V”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
    • The authors state this as an assumption: A resting metabolic rate of 3.5 ml/kg/min is an adequate estimate for all subjects.
  • Findingown data

    No significant sex difference was found for RPE12%VO2R.

    “While not shown in Table 4, the same results were found for RPE12%V .O 2 R, with no significant sex differences.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
    • The authors state this as an assumption: A resting metabolic rate of 3.5 ml/kg/min is an adequate estimate for all subjects.
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 29
  • May combine two claims. 31
  • The quote only partly states this claim. 1

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Premisecitation

    For elderly and low-fit individuals, an RPE of 12-13 is an appropriate starting point for aerobic exercise prescription.

    “When developing exercise prescriptions for elderly and low-fit individuals, several studies established that using an RPE of 12-13 is an appropriate starting point for aerobic exercise prescription (30,31).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim2 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [30] source

      The Discussion (page unavailable) cautions that RPE may take time to reveal when exercise is too strenuous for sedentary people starting later in life. It recommends finding an appropriate workload during the first few days and then fine-tuning it with RPE and other measures, rather than using RPE as the initial prescription. The paper also does not recommend an RPE of 12–13 for this group. (LLM, conf=0.82)

      Checked by a reasoning model — may be wrong.

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
    • cites [31] source

      The Conclusions (page not provided) report that people with low baseline aerobic capacity improved fitness at intensities as low as 30% of VO₂ reserve, and the paper includes studies of older adults. It does not express a recommended starting intensity as RPE 12–13, so that specific prescription is unsupported. (LLM, conf=0.82)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise at RPE 12-13 corresponds directly to VT, and above that intensity exercise becomes high intensity.

    “Applicability of VT to exercise prescription is predicated on the well-established notion that moderate-intensity aerobic exercise at an RPE of 12-13 corresponds directly to VT and that above this intensity exercise becomes high intensity (31,32).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [31] source

      The Abstract and Discussion describe exercise intensity using oxygen-consumption measures, heart-rate reserve, and METs. Searches for RPE 12–13, ventilatory threshold, and their relationship found no passage establishing that RPE 12–13 corresponds to VT or that exercise above VT becomes high intensity. The paper’s discussion of a minimal effective training intensity addresses a different threshold. (LLM, conf=0.76)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
    • cites [32] source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The strong association between VT and RPE 12-13 also applies to exercise testing and prescription in patients taking beta-blockers, where VT intensity was confirmed by heart-rate-based relative intensity.

    “The robust association between VT and RPE 12-13 also extends to exercise testing and prescription in patients under the influence of Β-blockers, where the intensity at VT was confirmed with HR-based determinations of relative intensity (35).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [35] source

      The Methods describe heart-rate limits used for screening and activity testing, and the Discussion addresses accelerometer-derived MET estimates. Searches for ventilatory threshold, RPE 12–13, beta-blockers, and heart-rate-based relative intensity found no passage addressing the claimed association or its application to patients taking beta-blockers. (LLM, conf=0.76)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Premisecitation

    If VT cannot be measured, RPE is well established as a useful metric for prescribing and monitoring exercise intensity.

    “if VT cannot be measured, then RPE is well established as a useful metric to prescribe and monitor exercise intensity (34,35).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [34] source
    • cites [35] source

      The Introduction discusses accelerometer-based measurement of physical-activity intensity, and the Methods describe oxygen-consumption measurements. Neither addresses using ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) to prescribe or monitor exercise when ventilatory threshold (VT) cannot be measured. Searches for RPE and ventilatory threshold found no relevant passage in our copy. (LLM, conf=0.75)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Among participants with the lowest VO2peak (≤25 ml/kg/min), VO2vt was 14.3 ml/kg/min, representing about 60% VO2R.

    “the V .O 2 vt of participants with the lowest V .O 2 peak of ≤25 ml•kg -1 •min -1 for males and females was 14.3 ml•kg -1 •min -1 and represented ~60%V .O 2 R.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
    • The authors state this as an assumption: A resting metabolic rate of 3.5 ml/kg/min is an adequate estimate for all subjects.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Group mean VT%VO2R was highest in aerobic athletes (67.3 ± 6.2%) and sedentary females (61.4 ± 10.3%), and lowest in the HERITAGE Study (49.1 ± 9.5%).

    “group means between highs of 67.3±6.2%(aerobic athletes) and 61.4±10.3%(sedentary females) to lows of 49.1±9.5% (HERITAGE Study).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
    • The authors state this as an assumption: A resting metabolic rate of 3.5 ml/kg/min is an adequate estimate for all subjects.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Mean RPE at VT was 12.5 ± 0.93 and did not vary with VO2peak.

    “Mean RPE at VT was 12.5 ± 0.93, regardless of V .O 2 peak.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    The final analysis included 863 exercise-test records (46% female, 54% male) after 268 of 1,131 records were excluded for unacceptable VT determination or incomplete data.

    “The original data from 1,131 participants were evaluated with 268 rejected as noted in the methods, resulting in 863 participants (46% female, 54% male) (16,(19)(20)(21)(22)(23), with acceptable VT determinations and complete data.”
    • Also stated in: § Abstract · plain
      “863 records of exercise tests were retrospectively examined.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingreasoning

    Sedentary and active non-athlete subgroups had negative VO2peak-VT%VO2R slopes, because their VO2peak-VO2vt slopes were below 1.0.

    “Negative V .O 2 peak-VT%V .O 2 R slopes resulted for sedentary and active non-athletes, as their V .O 2 peak-V .O 2 vt slopes were <1.0.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
    • The authors state this as an assumption: A resting metabolic rate of 3.5 ml/kg/min is an adequate estimate for all subjects.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    In subset analyses of RPE at VT, the lowest mean was 12.1 in 236 HERITAGE females and the highest was 13.1 in 58 wildland firefighters.

    “subset analyses for RPE at VT reveal that the lowest mean was 12.1 in 236 females from the HERITAGE Family study and the highest was 13.1 in 58 wildland firefighters.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Endurance athletes were the only subgroup with a positive VO2peak-VT%VO2R slope, because their VO2vt-VO2peak slope exceeded 1.0.

    “The endurance athletes (including athletes and wildland firefighters) were the only sub-groups for which the V .O 2 peak-VT%V .O 2 R slope was positive due to the V .O 2 vt-V .O 2 peak slope >1.0.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
    • The authors state this as an assumption: A resting metabolic rate of 3.5 ml/kg/min is an adequate estimate for all subjects.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingown data

    VO2peak in the analyzed sample spanned 15.0 to 81.1 ml/kg/min.

    “V .O 2 peak ranged from 15.0 to 81.1 ml•kg -1 •min -1 .”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    For the whole sample, VT as a percentage of VO2R averaged 55.2 ± 11.3%, with individual values from 25.5% to 86.0%.

    “The VT%V .O 2 R of the total group averaged 55.2±11.3%, with individuals ranging from 25.5% to 86.0%”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
    • The authors state this as an assumption: A resting metabolic rate of 3.5 ml/kg/min is an adequate estimate for all subjects.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingown data

    Aerobically fit individuals had a slightly higher but non-significant RPE than sedentary individuals.

    “There is a slightly higher but non-significant difference in RPE in aerobically fit individuals over sedentary, a finding that cannot be confirmed as physiologically relevant at this time.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    As peak oxygen uptake falls below about 40 ml/kg/min, mean ventilatory threshold oxygen uptake declines gradually to about 14±4.3 ml/kg/min; above 40 ml/kg/min, absolute ventilatory threshold rises more steeply.

    “As shown in Figure1A, as V .O 2 peak decreases below ~40 ml•kg -1 •min -1 , there is a gradual decline in the mean V .O 2 vt until reaching a value of ~14±4.3ml•kg -1 •min -1 .Above a V .O 2 peak of 40 ml•kg -1 •min -1 , the rise in absolute VT is steeper”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingreasoning

    All regressions in Figure 1A-1D were statistically significant (p<0.01) despite large variability, partly because of the large number of subjects.

    “All regressions in Figure1A-1D are statistically significant in spite of this large variability, thanks in part to the large subject numbers.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Mean oxygen uptake at the ventilatory threshold reaches a nadir at very low peak oxygen uptake, and within sedentary individuals absolute oxygen uptake at the ventilatory threshold decreases only slightly as peak oxygen uptake falls.

    “3) Overall, average values for V .O 2 vt exhibit a nadir at very low levels of V .O 2 peak with only slight decreases in absolute values of V .O 2 vt within sedentary individuals with decreasing V .O 2 peak.”
    • Also stated in: § VT and exercise prescriptions · plain
      “An essential finding of this investigation is that there was a nadir in the mean VT value (~14 ml•kg -1 •min -1 ) in those with a low V .O 2 peak.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Ventilatory threshold expressed as a percentage of oxygen uptake reserve does not differ from heart rate at ventilatory threshold expressed as a percentage of heart rate reserve or from oxygen uptake at RPE 12 expressed as a percentage of oxygen uptake reserve across the full aerobic fitness range.

    “2) VT%V .O 2 R is not different from HR VT %HRR or RPE12%V .O 2 R across the entire range of aerobic fitness.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Rating of perceived exertion at the ventilatory threshold was relatively homogeneous across the entire data set, averaging 12.5±0.93 and ranging from 13.0±0.83 in wildland firefighters to 12.2±0.88 in HERITAGE.

    “the RPE at VT was relatively homogenous for the entire data set, averaging 12.5±0.93and ranging from 13.0±0.83(wildland firefighters) to 12.2±0.88(HERITAGE).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Individuals with peak oxygen uptake near 40 ml/kg/min had ventilatory threshold values from 33% to 78% of oxygen uptake reserve, while those with peak oxygen uptake near 20 ml/kg/min could have ventilatory threshold as a percentage of oxygen uptake reserve between 42% and 87%.

    “individuals with V .O 2 peak values near 40 ml•kg -1 •min -1 had VT values ranging from 33-78% of V .O 2 R, while subjects with V .O 2 peak values near 20 ml•kg -1 •min -1 could have VT%V .O 2 R values between 42-87%.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Subjects with ventilatory threshold as a percentage of oxygen uptake reserve below 30% had peak oxygen uptake between 30 and 45 ml/kg/min and mean ventilatory threshold oxygen uptake of 12.5 ml/kg/min.

    “The subjects with VT%V .O 2 R values below 30 percent had V .O 2 peak values between 30-45 ml•kg -1 •min -1 , with very low V .O 2 vt values (mean=12.5ml•kg -1 •min -1 )”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Among the cohort, 116 individuals with peak oxygen uptake at or below 25 ml/kg/min had mean peak oxygen uptake 21.7 ml/kg/min, mean ventilatory threshold oxygen uptake 14.3 ml/kg/min, mean ventilatory threshold as a percentage of oxygen uptake reserve 59.5%, and mean oxygen uptake at RPE 12 as a percentage of oxygen uptake reserve 59.3%.

    “In our cohort, 116 individuals had V .O 2 peak values ≤ 25 ml•kg -1 •min -1 with an average V .O 2 peak = 21.7 ml•kg -1 •min -1 and an average V .O 2 vt = 14.3 ml•kg -1 •min -1 .The average VT%V .O 2 R = 59.5% and the average RPE12%V .O 2 R = 59.3%”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    The ventilatory threshold values in this sample fell within the ACSM-recommended range of 30% to 89% of oxygen uptake reserve, with only 3 of 863 subjects below 30% and none above 89%.

    “The VT values of our subjects fit well within the ACSM-recommended range of 30-89% V .O 2 R, with only 3 out of 863 subjects having VT%V .O 2 R values below 30%, and no subject was above 89%.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
    • Rests on an assumption: The ACSM-recommended range for ventilatory threshold is 30–89% of oxygen uptake reserve.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    The graph of peak oxygen uptake versus heart rate at ventilatory threshold as a percentage of heart rate reserve is similar in shape, regression equation, and R value to Figures 1B and 1D.

    “While not presented, the graph of V .O 2 peak vs. HR VT %HRR is also like Figures1B and 1Din shape, regression equation and R value”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). The quote only partly states this claim.

    Findingown data

    P values for sex-matched comparisons ranged from 0.170 to 0.943, with an average of 0.605.

    “P values ranged from 0.170 to 0.943 with an average of 0.605.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    While ventilatory threshold as a percentage of oxygen uptake reserve and heart rate at ventilatory threshold as a percentage of heart rate reserve increased with group activity level, rating of perceived exertion at the ventilatory threshold was similar (non-significant, p>0.05) between sedentary, active, and aerobic athlete groups.

    “While V R and HR VT %HRR at VT increased with group activity level, RPE at VT was similar (NS, p>0.05) between sedentary (12.4±0.90),active (12.4±0.79) and aerobic athlete (12.9±0.94)groups.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationown data

    Across the VO2peak range, VT is an excellent indicator of the upper end of moderate-intensity exercise and the moderate-to-high intensity threshold, and is useful for prescribing exercise intensity.

    “Across the V .O 2 peak range, as with RPE 12-13, VT is an excellent indicator for the achievement of the upper end of moderate-intensity exercise and the threshold dividing moderate and high intensity, and is a useful reference value when prescribing exercise intensity.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    ACSM guidelines recommend a prescribed exercise intensity of 30/40-89% VO2R or HRR.

    “The guidelines state that the prescribed exercise intensity should be 30/40-89% V .O 2 R or HRR.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [1] source

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    These data reinforce the need to evaluate exercise capacity at RPE 12-13 or to estimate or measure VT.

    “These data further reinforce the need to evaluate exercise capacity at an RPE 12-13 or to estimate or measure VT.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
    • The authors state this as an assumption: A resting metabolic rate of 3.5 ml/kg/min is an adequate estimate for all subjects.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationcitation

    The lower end of the recommended range reflects the suggestion that very unfit or high-risk people should start at lower intensities.

    “The lower number within that recommended range reflects the suggestion that”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

    Interpretationown data

    These data suggest that each person should be evaluated to determine the exercise intensity or heart rate associated with VT or RPE 12-13, depending on available information.

    “Indeed, these data suggest that each individual needs to be evaluated to determine the exercise intensity or HR that is associated with VT or with RPE 12-13, depending on what information is available to the professional presecribing exercise.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
    • The authors state this as an assumption: A resting metabolic rate of 3.5 ml/kg/min is an adequate estimate for all subjects.
    • The authors state this as an assumption: A resting heart rate of 60 beats/min is an adequate estimate for all subjects.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    %HRR is well established as an alternative exercise-intensity metric because it is generally linear and proportional to VO2R.

    “Use of %HRR is well established as an alternative metric for exercise intensity because the value is generally linear and proportional to V .O 2 R (25,28).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [25] source
    • cites [28] source

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationreasoning

    The variance in the study populations was somewhat smaller than in previous reports.

    “The variance in our populations is somewhat smaller than previously reported (5-7, 15, 24) possibly due to to consistency of testing and VT analysis applied across this large study population.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 5 sources checked
    • cites [5] source
    • cites [6]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [7]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [15] source
    • cites [24] source

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationown data

    In this cohort, RPE at VT and RPE 12 occurred across a wide range of %VO2R, which conflicts with the common belief that RPE 12 corresponds to 40-59% VO2R and HRR in the general population.

    “As presented in Figures 1B and 1D, this U-shaped response of V .O 2 peak with VT%V .O 2 R and RPE12%V .O 2 R shows that RPE at VT and RPE 12 in this cohort occurs across a wide range of %V .O 2 R and is discordant with the common belief that a moderate-intensity RPE of 12 corresponds with a relative intensity of 40-59% V .O 2 R and HRR for the general population (25).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [25] source

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationreasoning

    The smaller variance may be explained by consistent testing and VT analysis across the large study population.

    “The variance in our populations is somewhat smaller than previously reported (5-7, 15, 24) possibly due to to consistency of testing and VT analysis applied across this large study population.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationcitation

    In wildland firefighters, the inverse relationship between peak oxygen uptake and ventilatory threshold as a percentage of oxygen uptake reserve has been described previously and appears related to months of group work doing similar-intensity tasks, producing homogeneous ventilatory threshold oxygen uptake values when crews are examined at the end of the work season.

    “in wildland firefighters, this observation has been previously described (40) and appears related to months of group work, doing similar intensity tasks, resulting in homogenous V .O 2 vt values when crews are examined at the conclusion of the work season.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [40]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationown data

    These low ventilatory threshold percentages are suggestive of very sedentary behavior.

    “suggestive of very sedentary behavior.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Study design and conductown data

    Forty-two subjects were rejected for lack of agreement on VT determination and 226 for fewer than three stages before VT.

    “Forty-two subjects were rejected from the original data set due to lack of agreement on VT determination and another 226 were rejected due to fewer than three stages prior to VT determination.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Study design and conductnone given

    VO2peak was accepted when at least two of three criteria were met: RER ≥1.1, heart rate within 10 beats of age-predicted maximum, and RPE ≥18.

    “Criteria for achieving V .O 2 peak included at least 2 of the following: 1) RER ≥1.1; 2) within 10 beats of age-predicted maximal heart rate (HRmax); and 3) RPE ≥ 18.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Study design and conductnone given

    The Borg 6-20 RPE scale was used for all testing and explained to participants before testing.

    “The Borg 6-20 RPE scale was used for all testing.The scale was explained to all participants prior to testing.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Study design and conductnone given

    VT values from two investigators were averaged when they differed by less than 3%; if they differed by more than 3%, a third evaluator reassessed, and data were rejected if no agreement was reached.

    “The VT values determined by the two investigators were then compared and, if similar (< 3% difference), the values were averaged.When the values were > 3% different, a third evaluator used the same methods and compared that determination with the original two values.If one original value was within 3% of the reassessment, those two values were averaged.If no agreement was reached, the data were re”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Knowing VT and its associated RPE of 12-13 may be particularly useful for prescribing initial endurance exercise intensity or moderate activity for general health.

    “An important application of the data presented in Figures 1B and 1D suggests that knowing VT, and its associated RPE of 12-13, might prove particularly useful when prescribing the initial endurance exercise intensity or prescribing moderate activity to promote general health.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Study design and conductcitation

    VT was determined by concurrently evaluating three validated graphical methods: ventilatory equivalent, excess carbon dioxide, and modified V-slope using 20-second averaged data.

    “three validated methods were graphically evaluated concurrently to determine VT: 1) Ventilatory equivalent; 2) Excess carbon dioxide; and 3) Modified V-slope using 20-sec averaged data.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Study design and conductnone given

    Two trained researchers independently and randomly assessed each subject's VT graphic data.

    “Two trained researchers independently and randomly assessed each subject's graphic data.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductown data

    All HERITAGE subjects met the RER and age-predicted heart rate criteria during GXT.

    “All HERITAGE Family Study subjects achieved criteria 1 and 2 during the GXT.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductnone given

    One investigator evaluated all data across all studies to maintain consistent methodology.

    “One investigator evaluated all data across all studies to provide consistent methodology, while several investigators divided the job for the second evaluation.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductnone given

    If any investigator judged the data indeterminate, that subject's data were rejected.

    “If any investigator thought that the data were indeterminate, the data for that subject were rejected.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Exercise at or just below VT produces healthful adaptations and defines a power output typically sustainable for 20-30 minutes.

    “exercise at or just below VT elicits healthful exercise adaptations, while also characterizing a power output that is typically sustainable for 20-30 minutes (1).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [1] source

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Using measured VT to prescribe aerobic exercise intensity removes the subjectivity of RPE or the recommended %HRR/%VO2R range and provides an excellent metric for monitoring progress.

    “using measured VT to prescribe aerobic exercise intensity eliminates the subjectivity associated with RPE, or using the recommended prescriptive range for %HRR or %V .O 2 R, and provides an excellent metric to monitor progress.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
    • The authors state this as an assumption: A resting metabolic rate of 3.5 ml/kg/min is an adequate estimate for all subjects.
    • The authors state this as an assumption: A resting heart rate of 60 beats/min is an adequate estimate for all subjects.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Prescribing exercise using VT remains under-utilized.

    “prescribing exercise with VT remains an under-utilized practice (14).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [14]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationcitation

    This conclusion is especially important for people with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease.

    “This conclusion is of added importance for persons with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease (29).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [29]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Premisecitation

    The ACSM moderate-intensity recommendation is 40-59% of oxygen uptake reserve.

    “the moderateintensity recommendation (25) of 40-59% V .O 2 R (dashed box).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [25] source

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductnone given

    Subjects with fewer than three complete graded exercise test stages before VT confirmation were excluded.

    “When there were fewer than three complete graded exercise test stages prior to confirming VT, subject data were eliminated from these analyses.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
53 of 53

  • The authors state this as an assumption.

    A resting metabolic rate of 3.5 ml/kg/min is an adequate estimate for all subjects.

    “The value of 3.5 ml•kg -1 •min -1 was used as an estimate for resting metabolism in all subjects.”
    “we acknowledge that V .O 2 R and VT%V .O 2 R values were calculated using an assumed resting metabolic rate of 3.5 ml•kg -1 •min -1 .”

  • The authors state this as an assumption.

    A resting heart rate of 60 beats/min is an adequate estimate for all subjects.

    “The value of 60 beats•min -1 was used as an estimate for HR REST for all subjects.”
    “we used an assumed resting HR of 60 beats/minute.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Ventilatory threshold marks the transition from moderate- to high-intensity exercise.

    “VT, which is associated with the transition from moderate-to high-intensity exercise”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    The ACSM-recommended range for ventilatory threshold is 30–89% of oxygen uptake reserve.

    “The VT values of our subjects fit well within the ACSM-recommended range of 30-89% V .O 2 R”
4 of 4

Self-check

Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.

Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.

  • HERITAGE participant count differs by ten

    Minor

    The methods report 432 HERITAGE participants, whereas Table 1 reports 442.

  • Moderately active student count differs by ten

    Minor

    The participant description lists 59 moderately active college students, but Table 1 lists 49.

  • HERITAGE BMI exceeds both sex-specific means

    Minor

    The HERITAGE mean BMI is listed as 30.1, while its male and female means are 27.2 and 26.7. Those subgroup means cannot produce the stated group mean.

  • RPE 12 receives conflicting intensity labels

    Minor

    The introduction describes RPE 12 as moderate and between light and somewhat hard. The discussion instead labels RPE 12 itself somewhat hard.

  • Overall BMI exceeds both sex-specific means

    Minor

    Table 1 gives an overall mean BMI of 28.5, although its male and female means are 27.3 and 28.4. An overall mean cannot exceed both component-group means.

  • Moderately active student BMI exceeds both sex-specific means

    Minor

    The group mean BMI is 27.8, but the male and female means are only 26.9 and 27.1.

  • Firefighter BMI exceeds both sex-specific means

    Minor

    The firefighter group mean BMI of 26.9 is higher than both its male mean of 26.7 and female mean of 24.2.

7 of 7

Cites

Flagged first, then by citations

2 of the 46 references couldn’t be matched to a known paper.

Research works printed but not linked: 1

  1. 2003, Changes evaluated in soccer-specific power endurance either with or without a 10-week, in-season, intermittent, high-intensity training protocol, J Strength Cond Res, 17, 379

Cited by

Sorted by citations

Related

Authors
GASKILL, S. E., SKINNER, J. S., & QUINDRY, J.
Affiliations
  • University of Montana (US)
  • Indiana University Bloomington (US)
Corresponding author
QUINDRY, JOHN
ORCID
Venue
Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise
Publisher
Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Published
2023-05-19
Volume
55
Issue
10
Pages
1876-1885
ISSN
  • 0195-9131 (ISSN-L)
  • 1530-0315
DOI
10.1249/mss.0000000000003220
PMC
PMC10524184
OpenAlex
W4377094582
Semantic Scholar
a5ae74ba6d93c2246df32a73308fd80c1ccbf4b5
Cited by
14
References
46
Citations by year
2026: 5 · 2025: 7 · 2024: 2
FWCI
4.46
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Locations
  • Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise (publishedVersion)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
  • PubMed Central (submittedVersion)
Topics
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Complementary and alternative medicine › Cardiovascular and exercise physiology
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine › Heart Rate Variability and Autonomic Control
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Orthopedics and Sports Medicine › Sports Performance and Training
Keywords
ventilatory threshold, oxygen reserve, heart rate reserve, rating of perceived exertion, aerobic exercise prescription, exercise intensity, exercise testing, ACSM guidelines
MeSH terms
Exercise Test, Physical Exertion, Heart Rate, Humans, Oxygen Consumption

About these checks

Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.

Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-05.

Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-05.

Cited sources are checked by gpt-6-sol.

Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.

Confidence bands are shown only for fields calibrated on our annotated test set. None is calibrated yet, so no band is shown.

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